Standards of Behavior Policy

Notice to All Users of Onondaga County Public Library

Welcome to the library! Our goal is to make sure that everyone has a positive experience while they are here. Mutual respect makes it possible for every library user to take advantage of all the library has to offer. All Library users can help to create a safe and welcoming space by behaving in a manner that does not disrupt others.

Onondaga County Public Libraries Board of Trustees has established the Standards of Behavior Policy [PDF] to:

  • Protect the rights of individuals to enjoy the benefits of library facilities, materials and services
  • Protect the rights of library staff members and volunteers to conduct library business without interference
  • Preserve library materials and facilities from harm
  • Ensure the safety of library patrons, employees and volunteers

The Standards of Behavior Policy is posted in each library building. Library staff members are authorized to bring to an individual's attention any act which is prohibited in the library. The individual will be asked to change the problem behavior. If such change is not evident or forthcoming, that individual will be asked to leave library property for a period of time that is determined by the library’s Guidelines for Dealing with Difficult Patrons. Failure to leave if asked may result in the police being called and a possible charge of criminal trespass. NYS Penal Code 140.05.

As taken from the full policy -

Prohibited Behaviors or Activities Include:

  • Any behavior that disrupts the normal functioning of the library or creates an unsafe environment.
  • Failure to follow staff instructions.
  • Noise disturbing to others, including loud talking, yelling and inappropriate/loud use of digital devices and audio equipment.
  • Disruptive, obscene, abusive language or gestures.
  • Acting in an intimidating, threatening, hostile or offensive manner.
  • Fighting, physical abuse or assault.
  • Theft or defacement of library or personal property.
  • Violating the Internet Policy, including the public display of offensive sexual materials as restricted by NYS Penal Laws, §245.10, §245.11, §263.11 and §263.16.
  • Bare feet or chest.
  • Consuming or selling alcohol, marijuana products, or illegal drugs.
  • Excessive public displays of affection, exhibitionism, lewd behavior, engaging in or soliciting sexual acts.
  • Leaving children or other vulnerable individuals unattended in accordance with our Unattended Child and Vulnerable Individual Policy.
  • Offensive bodily odor.
  • Harassment of any kind, including of a sexual nature.
  • Sleeping.
  • Smoking, chewing tobacco, vaping or using other tobacco products.
  • Trespassing – entering library property when barred.
  • Any activity in violation of local, federal or state law

Prohibited Items Include:

  • Carts, large bags, bags on wheels, luggage, or collections of bags, and strollers when not intended for use with babies and infants.
  • Any personal items that appear to be infested or have a foul odor that disturbs other people.
  • Weapons of any kind.

Inappropriate Use of Facilities or Equipment Includes:

  • Activities intended to interfere with or disrupt computer networks or equipment.
  • Animals, except service dogs or animals which are part of a library sponsored program.
  • Obstructing passageways or blocking access to the library or any part of the library.
  • Use of public restrooms for bathing or laundry, other inappropriate use of restrooms, use of other public areas for personal grooming.
  • Vandalizing library facilities and equipment